I want to extend the cables on my Kato track and points without resorting to expensive original Kato stuff.

So I just plan to extend the existing wires with blue and white cable.

Problem is, I don't know exactly what I'm looking for or where to buy it! Was hoping I could get away with spending just a few quid. Anyone any ideas? Or what "search term" I should use when searching for it? Thanks

If you're anywhere near Preston you could try CPC Farnell.
Look for 'hookup wire'.
They mail-order too but you'd probably need to order a lifetime supply to make it worth while unless there's anything else electrical you want that you can tag on the order.

eBay might be better with the same term as sellers there usually have free delivery.

My goto place for wire is https://www.railwayscenics.com/index.php They do many colours, sizes, lengths etc.

I"d have thought any blue and white 16/0.2 wire would be OK

Quote from: strain on October 23, 2024, 05:57:55 PMMy goto place for wire is https://www.railwayscenics.com/index.php They do many colours, sizes, lengths etc.

Perfect!

Quote from: Newportnobby on October 23, 2024, 06:09:57 PMI"d have thought any blue and white 16/0.2 wire would be OK

Would single core 24AWG 0.6mm do the trick? (I guess that's stiff/solid core, rather than the more flexible Kato stuss)

I bought this, bit expensive but very similar to the Kato wires.


Ed

Think this is the same one but slightly cheaper.

https://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/product/B0B3CZR86L/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&th=1



Ed

Quote from: keiron99 on October 23, 2024, 07:34:11 PM

Quote from: Newportnobby on October 23, 2024, 06:09:57 PMI"d have thought any blue and white 16/0.2 wire would be OK

Would single core 24AWG 0.6mm do the trick? (I guess that's stiff/solid core, rather than the more flexible Kato stuss)

Recommend against single core wire for anything that might be subject to strain or flexing. Always go for multi-strand (multiple thinner, more flexible strands) standard sizes used are 7*0.2 (7 strands of 0.2mm diamater) which is sufficient for the majority of needs or 16*0.2 for higher current uses or longer runs.

This listing has twisted blue/white wire in various lengths and gauges. It comes from China so will take a while to arrive though.   I'd go for the 0.35mm squared, the cores are 19/0.16   so not much different to 16/0.2 wire

https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/176535681538

Quote from: keiron99 on October 23, 2024, 07:34:11 PM

Quote from: Newportnobby on October 23, 2024, 06:09:57 PMI"d have thought any blue and white 16/0.2 wire would be OK

Would single core 24AWG 0.6mm do the trick? (I guess that's stiff/solid core, rather than the more flexible Kato stuss)

Personally I avoid single core wire as if that single core breaks you're jiggered

Yep, avoid at all costs. I used it on part of my layout because I happened to have a heap of it, ex-telecom stuff. Worst mistake I ever made. I have several points motors not working, and I'm sure the problem is in that wiring.

Multi strand is the only way to go.